ODISSI-ORISSI DANCE

Orissi/Odissi

What is Odissi? Odissi, or Orissi,
is a classical dance form from the state of Orissa. Odissi is characterized
by fluidity of the upper torso (the waves of the ocean on the shores of
Puri) and gracefulness in gestures and wristwork (swaying of the palms),
juxtaposed with firm footwork (heartbeat of Mother Earth). All classical
Indian dance forms include both pure rhythmic dances and acting or story
dances. The rhythmic dances of Odissi are called batu/sthayi (foundation),
pallavi (flowering), and moksha (liberation). The acting dances are called
abhinaya. Although incorporating a range of emotions and mythologies, the
eternal union of Radha and Krishna (Gita Govinda) is central to the abhinaya
in Odissi Dance. EitherOdissi or Orissi may
be considered acceptable in writing.

Sculptures of Odissi dancers adorn many temple walls in Orissa. Carving of a
dancer playing flute in the tribhangi position for a rapt listener (right) exemplifies
the Odissi pose now associated with Lord Krishna.

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